Go Play Outside! Backyard Guide

There are so many compelling reasons for kids to stay inside, even in the summer–cable television, video games, central air conditioning. These perfect outdoor toys will coax them outside and keep them there, while you catch up on your summer reading.

This ball combines my kidís innate love of globes and giant balls. Comes with a book of games, but I think reading the instruction manual will be the last thing on your kids’ minds when you bust this out.

These cute popsicles may take the pain out of giving up High Fructose Corn Syrup in favor of homemade frozen treats. The boat also catches any drips from a slow eater on a hot day. They’d be great for a theme birthday party too.

Sure, your kid has a sandbox shovel, but what about the big projects? Wouldn’t a steel crane come in handy? You bet it would. The base has three wheels and spins 360 degrees. How I wish they made one of these for grownups.